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About the Stigma Index

The People Living with HIV Stigma Index provides a tool that measures and detects changing trends in relation to stigma and discrimination experienced by people living with HIV. In the initiative, the process is just as important as the product. It aims to address stigma relating to HIV while also advocating on the key barriers and issues perpetuating stigma - a key obstacle to HIV treatment, prevention, care and support.

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Uganda Launches First Stigma Index Report

5 Dec 2014

The report was launched on 29th October 2013 by the minister of health Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda, at Hotel African. It is the first ever Stigma Index survey conducted among people living with HIV in Uganda.Gossiping is the commonest form of stigma amongst persons living with HIV and AIDS, according to the report by People Living with HIV (PLHIV) Stigma Index Report, 2013. The report puts gossiping at 62% and is followed by verbal harassment, insults and threats at 37%.Stella Kentusi, Executive director, NAFOPHANU, said PLHIV often face stigma and discrimination, yet many don't know what their rights are and how they can help to change things for better. She regrets that 30 years later, stigma and discrimination would continue to be major problems, even in an era where treatment for HIV is more accessible, and prevention of HIV is not only more and more possible, it is critical."If we don't appreciate the nature and impact of stigma, none of our interventions can begin to be successful. Stigma and discrimination are "road blocks" to universal access to HIV prevention, treatment, care and support. AIDS is probably the most stigmatized disease in history," Kentusi said.